Meet the American Wirehair Cat, America's New York Native Breed

Why the American Wirehair Cat Could Be Your Next Best Friend

IS THE AMERICAN WIREHAIR CAT RIGHT FOR YOU?

American Wirehairs are usually fun lovers who relate well with human feelings.

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Their personality depends mainly on their upbringing although they usually have friendly attitudes.

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The American Wirehair cat greatly dislikes cuddling and requires a say in everything their owner does.

HISTORY

First discovered in Verona, New York in 1966, the American Wirehair cropped up after a spontaneous mutation in a litter of farm cats, when two cats of one breed had a litter of cats unlike any other. Now found across the nation, the American Wirehair has become a very popular breed. First accepted for CFA registration in 1967, the American Wirehair is a relatively recent addition to the pure breed roster.

quick facts

Size

Medium, Large

Lifespan

Average of 15 years

Hair Length

Medium

Litter Size

An average of 6 kittens

Male Weight

8 - 11 pounds

Female Weight

6 - 9 pounds

APPEARANCE

The American Wirehair is a medium to large size cat, with a broad, fit frame. Their legs are powerful, ending in noticeably large paws. As their name would suggest, their coat is wiry in texture. However, unlike other breeds with rough fur, the American Wirehair coat can grow out and become dense. While they are descendents of the American Shorthair, the Wirehair was bred to have slightly different features, like more pronounced cheekbones, and rounder, wider set eyes.

PERSONALITY

While their attitude and behavior is heavily dependent on their upbringing, the American Wirehair is, for the most part, a quiet, reserved, and loving breed. They are a caring and emotionally attentive breed, but typically do not take well to being held or cuddled. They do, however, like to stick by their owner.

color

The American Wirehair can come in a wide variety of colors, from white, black, blue, red, cream, or silver, and can come in a number of different patterns.

Similar Breeds

health concerns

Normally strong and healthy, the American Wirehair has few health problems. However, these cats are more prone to allergies and some may lose their coat when under stress or in rough weather conditions.